Laser Marking System for Integrated Ammo Inspection

Mabema Combines Cutting-Edge Ammo Inspection Machines with Cajo’s Laser Marking System

Mabema strategically positioned the Cajo laser marking system for integrated ammo inspection immediately after the extractor inspection station and before the head stamp inspection station. This setup allows the extractor station, in combination with Mabema’s proprietary laser positioning software, to align the cartridge or case perfectly for head stamp marking. Following the laser marking, a full inspection of the head stamp is performed, creating a seamless two-in-one solution.

Mabema’s journey began over 20 years ago in the Swedish nuclear power industry. Today, Mabema remains the leading supplier of radiation-resistant camera technology and image processing solutions. Beyond that, the company analyzes over 120 billion images annually for some of the world’s most demanding industries, including medical, automotive, and ammunition manufacturing. “Innovation” and “added value” are key principles at Mabema, explains Joakim Schackenborg, Head of the Business Area Ammo. “We are now in the third generation of our Ammo Inspection machines. ‘Added value’ might sound broad, but for Mabema, it boils down to one question: How can we help our clients become more profitable? It’s as simple as that,” Joakim says.

Advanced Ammo Quality Inspection Machines

Mabema’s Business Area Ammo manufactures the latest generation of ammunition quality inspection machines, InSpec. These machines perform visual inspections for defects and dimensional checks for small arms ammunition, conducting over 30 separate inspections per cartridge or case. Currently, there are two machine sizes available:

  • The InSpec Standard Machine: Handles calibers ranging from 9mm to .338 Lapua Magnum.
  • The InSpec Large Machine: Designed for calibers between .338 and .50 BMG (12.7×99). The machines feature four primary inspection stations: the Extractor Station, the Head Station, the Bullet/Mouth Station, and the Body Station.

Intelligent Laser marking solutions by Cajo

Cajo Technologies is a high-end technology company that offers intelligent and sustainable laser marking solutions for industrial traceability and product manufacturing. Cajo is particularly known for its patented additive-free laser marking method, enabling durable and precise markings on nearly all materials.

Key Benefits: Cost-Effectiveness and Sustainability: Laser marking replaces traditional methods like inkjet printing and labels, reducing waste and maintenance costs.

Industry 4.0 Optimization: Systems can be integrated directly into production lines or used as stand-alone units, offering fast and permanent 2D markings, for example, in battery manufacturing.

Environmental Friendliness: Marking solutions require no additives, making them ecologically sustainable.

Industries Served: Cajo serves a wide range of industries, including metal, automotive, cable and wire, medical, and consumer electronics. Its customers include industry leaders such as Kone, Tata Steel, and Outokumpu.

Cajo’s advanced technology enables complete traceability and product lifecycle-durable markings, helping its customers improve production quality and efficiency.

Design Priorities in the Latest Generation Machines

“Previously, our machine relied on gravity and friction for part feeding and movement, but we and our customers wanted a more efficient solution,” Joakim explains. When developing the latest generation of inspection machines, Mabema focused on several key priorities based on customer feedback. Among the top considerations were improving the controlled feeding of parts and minimizing the machine’s footprint.

“With real estate costs skyrocketing, a compact footprint is critical—it’s often a deciding factor in investment calculations. Simply put, footprint equals money.”.

Integrating Laser Marking with Inspection Machines

A few years ago, Mabema was approached by a renowned ammunition manufacturer in the United States interested in integrating laser marking into the InSpec machine. This would eliminate the need for a separate machine cabinet and feeder, saving space and process steps. Mabema conducted a feasibility study and quickly realized that the client’s setup would achieve an exceptionally fast return on investment.

“With the integration of laser marking in InSpec, our client is now highly flexible, with dramatically reduced storage costs and increased adaptability to customer demands,” Joakim notes. “They no longer need to overproduce by a percentage to cover potential defects. Instead, they laser -mark the exact quantities required, including any extra cases. This has led to substantial savings, particularly for clients managing high-volume stocks. Eliminating the need for a 4-75% surplus on hundreds of thousands of rounds adds up to significant value.”

Technical Integration of Cajo’s Laser Marking System

Mabema strategically positioned the Cajo Tailor™ integrable marking solution immediately after the extractor inspection station and before the head stamp inspection station. This setup allows the extractor station, in combination with Mabema’s proprietary laser positioning software, to align the cartridge or case perfectly for head stamp marking. Following the laser marking, a full inspection of the head stamp is performed, creating a seamless two-in-one solution.

Mabema combines cutting-edge Ammo Inspection Machines with Cajo Tailor™ integrable laser marking system.

Selecting the Right Laser Marking Partner

“When searching for a laser marking supplier, we looked for a company that shared Mabema’s culture and priorities.” Joakim says. “For us, competent and well working client support is vital. Never leave the client behind—that’s our standard.”

Mabema connected with Cajo, a company that has proven to be a perfect fit. “Cajo’s system is highly reliable. Their team is skilled, experienced, and most importantly, open to feedback,” says Joakim. “While we’ve only needed their support during the R&D phase, their responsiveness and willingness to collaborate have been excellent.”.

Benefits of Partnering with Cajo Technologies for OEM customers

Cajo Technologies is more than a high-end laser equipment manufacturer; it is a strategic partner committed to supporting OEM customers through every phase of development and production. By leveraging Cajo’s expertise and innovative solutions, OEMs can achieve superior performance, seamless integration, and a competitive edge in their markets.

Key Benefits for OEM Customers: 

Seamless Integration with Customer Equipment 

  • Expertise in electrical, mechanical, and software integration to ensure smooth incorporation of Cajo’s laser systems into existing equipment and workflows. 
  • Customizable solutions tailored to meet specific OEM requirements for optimal compatibility and functionality. 
  • Comprehensive support for laser radiation protection and precise calculations to ensure compliance with safety standards and operational efficiency. 

Expert Technical Support 

  • Dedicated technical experts are available at every stage—from integration to operation and optimization. 
  • Support that ensures Cajo’s systems deliver peak performance and maximum reliability. 

Tailored Training and Skills Development 

  • Customized training programs designed to enhance the skills and capabilities of OEM teams. 
  • Enables customers to fully utilize Cajo’s advanced technologies, driving operational excellence and innovation. 

Commitment to Continuous Innovation 

  • Collaboration with OEM customers to develop new applications and address evolving market needs. 
  • Focus on creating future-ready solutions that keep OEMs at the forefront of technological advancements. 

Why Choose Cajo Technologies as Your Laser Marking Partner? 

Cajo Technologies delivers more than equipment—it provides a strategic partnership focused on achieving excellence, seamless integration, safety, and operational efficiency. With innovative solutions and a customer-centric approach, Cajo is the trusted choice for OEM customers aiming to excel in their industries

Book a demonstration and experience the marking solutions of the future today!